Ɏ AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A FIERCE TIGER ON BAMBOO BY SHIGEMASA By Shigemasa, signed Shigemasa 重正 Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fierce-looking tiger, or tora, is crouching on a large bamboo stalk. This relates to the motif take ni tora, “tiger in bamboo”. There are many different interpretations; the tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient like the bamboo, but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking for shelter underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior to the forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent the power of faith in Buddhism. Very fine, self-contained, lively and charming work. The artist carved a shoot on the side, so the netsuke does not roll over. Neatly engraved signature SHIGEMASA on the underside. HEIGHT 4.2 CM Condition: Good general condition, perhaps a smoothed-out chip to one of the openings of the bamboo stalk Provenance: French private collection, acquired at Godeau, June 2nd, 1980 This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.